Prop Damage

Nemo · 23 June 2004, 08:30

Being a newcomer to the Rib scene firstly i would like to say Hi to all on RIBnet.

The problem that Ihave is that I damaged my prop on only my second venture out onto the solent on Monday evening.

The damage amounts to about a 30mm long by 10mm wide section missing from one of the blades. Is it still safe to use in the short term till i can find either a replacement or repair?

Thanks

Nemo!

Tim M · 23 June 2004, 08:35

I think most people will say that's not a good idea; if the prop is damaged it will not be balanced when it goes round. At high RPM this will shake your engine all over the place, and could damage the gear box or drive shaft.
If I were you I would buy a new one pronto.

Brian · 23 June 2004, 08:40

Or get it fixed by Steel Developments.
Or better still buy a new one, get your current one fixed and use it as a spare "next" time it happens.
I too would not run your engine with your current damaged prop.

Nick Hearne · 23 June 2004, 08:51

Hi yes get it repaired but how about getting a spare aluminum to get you going now! Much cheaper & less weight to carry around as a spare after the stainlesses one is repaired!
Nick

Hightower · 23 June 2004, 11:25

Done a bit of research for Yam props, should only cost you about £90.00 for a replacement Alloy one, so at that price is it worth repairing the damaged one (unless stainless). Just come back from USA today and managed to pick up a new 15" Alloy prop for $120 and a secondhand (used once) one for $50 and they chucked in a Yamaha baseball cap as a freebee.....Not bad for £100.00.

Phone around, you might even get one cheeper!

Andy

roohairy · 23 June 2004, 11:38

As long as the missing piece is only a small percentage of the total blade area and the blade is not distorted, ie. just a chunk missing with no cracks it'll be fine to use just check for vibration. Get a new one, but if you fancy going out for the evening go for it! Have used props much worse than you describe.

Nemo · 25 June 2004, 19:35

Thanks chaps for your advice!

Help!!!
Now ive gone to buy a new prop and cos mine has been superseeded about 3 times the new number equates to a CUPPED prop in a reduced pitch angle by 1

Is this right? and will it make any performance difference?

Thanks

Graham.

roohairy · 26 June 2004, 02:27

You just stepped way past my understanding! I'd say speak to steel developements, do a search sure you'll find their number on here.

jwalker · 26 June 2004, 02:35

Quote:

Originally Posted by Nemo

mine has been superseeded about 3 times the new number equates to a CUPPED prop in a reduced pitch angle by 1

Add some cup, reduce the pitch. Sounds about right.